Heather Garoufalis, B.S
Counseling Intern
Supervisor: Shaterra Walker
Ages: 5 and up
In Person, Virtual
Specialties
Academic Stress, Adolescents, Adults, Anxiety, Behavioral Concerns, Careers, Children, Christian Counseling, College Students, Depression, Developmental Disabilities, Educators, Emotional & Behavioral Challenges, First Responders, Graduate Interns, Grief and Loss, Human Service Professionals, LGBTQ+, Mood Disorders, Parenting, Personal Growth, Racial/Ethnic Issues, Self-Esteem, Stress Management, Transition, Trauma
Bio
I believe counseling gives people a place where they no longer have to carry everything alone. It offers the opportunity to say things out loud, sometimes for the first time, while feeling truly heard and understood. My hope is that every client experiences counseling as a safe, supportive space where they can show up exactly as they are and begin making sense of their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from themselves. My counseling philosophy is rooted in the belief that people are doing the best they can with what they have been given, and that lasting growth happens within a compassionate, nonjudgmental relationship. My previous experience in pediatric mental health has strengthened my ability to build rapport, recognize the many ways people express distress, and remain present during difficult moments. I utilize person-centered, cognitive behavioral, strengths-based, solution-focused, and trauma-informed approaches to help clients develop insight, self-compassion, and practical skills for lasting change.
If you're looking for a counselor who will listen with empathy, respect your unique story, and walk alongside you as you grow, I would be honored to be part of your journey.
Professional Experience
Prior to joining Freedom Support Services, Heather gained experience across community mental health, integrated healthcare, vocational rehabilitation, and inpatient pediatric behavioral health settings. Her professional background includes providing motivational interviewing and care coordination, supporting children and adolescents in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, working with adults living with severe mental illness in a residential setting, and helping individuals overcome barriers to employment through person-centered coaching and support.
Certifications & Professional Training
Qualified Mental Health Professional – Trainee (QMHP-T)
SafetyCare®
CPR/BLS/First Aid
Human Rights Officer
Virginia Medication Aide
Positive Behavioral Supports I & II
Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) I & II
Note: At FSS, a Counseling Intern is a graduate student who has completed 1+ years of a master’s degree in counseling and typically has 3+ years of full time experience in a variety of health and human services settings. They provide services under the supervision of residents and licensed counselors until they have met all state requirements to become a Resident in Counseling.
